Goodwill deaf hero finds $5,000 missing cash

A deaf Goodwill employee, Maqayla DeLaPena, is hailed as a hero because she found and returned a jacket that was accidentally donated with $5,000 cash in it.

Daily Moth reporter Renca Dunn was able to interview her. We’ll also show some video clips sent in from a Goodwill in the Fort Worth, Texas area.

Renca Dunn: Do you mind explaining what happened?

Maqayla DeLaPena: When the couple, a husband and wife, lost the money in an accidental clothing donation, Then in February, when it snowed, the stores were closed. When the store opened again, I set out looking for it. And I found it. It was stacked with $100 bills.

[GOODWILL HURST VIDEO] The first day we had opened back up, my softline sorters were back there sorting and she come up to the front, and she said, “Rhonda, Rhonda!” And I said, “Yes Maqayla?” And she said “I found it!”

Maqayla: I looked at the bills and ran. “That’s what you were talking about!” I went to my boss and she was like, “Wow!”

When I found the money, I wanted to impress them by showing that deaf people are honest. Some think deaf people can’t be honest. No, we can be honest. I’m not going to pocket it. I gave it to my boss. That’s who I am.

After this, Goodwill gave you a check and a

-- A metal medal.

A medal, yes.

[GOODWILL HURST VIDEO] Terry Willet, Retail Director: Thank you Maqayla, for your incredible integrity and thank you for letting Goodwill standout, as well as yourself.” Maqayla: Thank you.]

Maqayla: I feel proud. I never had that before. I’m young and I can do it. I’m showing that I’m a deaf person, that’s who I am.

Renca: Kudos to you. I hope that many will follow your example.

-- Yes, I hope!

If they find something, give it back to the rightful owner!

Maqayla: I agree.

Renca: Thank you for your time. I appreciate it.

Maqayla: Thank you.

Alex:

Great story. We’re proud of you Maqayla!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alzem_42wB8&t=9s